Breaking RFA Signing: Seattle Kraken Avoid Arbitration with Kaapo Kakko

Scratch another restricted free agent off the board, as the Seattle Kraken have avoided arbitration with a key player, signing Kaapo Kakko to a three-year deal.

Seattle and Kaapo Kakko avoid arbitration

3 x $4.525M
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) July 22, 2025

Kakko, 24, will earn a $4.525 million AAV over the three-year contract. He nearly doubles his paycheck, coming off a two-year, $2.4M cap hit.

The former 2nd overall pick (2019 NHL Draft), was acquired by Seattle early last season from the New York Rangers in a trade for defenseman Will Borgen. Kakko totaled 10 goals and 30 points in 49 games with the Kraken, finishing overall with 14 goals and 44 points in 79 games.

"Getting a contract done with Kaapo was a top priority this summer," Kraken general manager Jason Botterill said. "We knew quickly he'd be a big part of our team moving forward. He's got size, skill and tremendous playmaking ability, and isn't afraid of going to the net. He fit in immediately with our group, and we're thrilled to have him under contract."

The new contract buys out two of Kakko's UFA years. He'll be an unrestricted free agent in 2028 at the age of 27.